10/02/2026
Reducing the Risk of Gynaecological Cancer
A simple guide for patients
Every year in the UK, over 20,000 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancer and more than 7,500 women die from these cancers.
The good news is: some causes are preventable, and there are steps you can take to reduce risk.
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1) HPV and Cervical Cancer
HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a very common virus passed through skin-to-skin sexual contact.
• HPV causes almost all cervical cancers (around 99%)
• HPV is also linked to around 70% of v***al cancers
How to protect yourself
✅ Cervical screening
Cervical screening finds early changes (pre-cancer) so they can be treated before cancer develops.
✅ HPV vaccination
The HPV vaccine prevents infection with high-risk HPV types.
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2) Know Your V***a – Don’t Feel Embarrassed
V***al cancer can sometimes be picked up early if symptoms are noticed.
See a doctor if you have:
• persistent itching or soreness
• a lump or thickened skin
• a sore or ulcer that does not heal
• skin colour changes
• bleeding or pain
These symptoms are often NOT cancer, but they should always be checked.
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3) Family History and Inherited Risk
Some women inherit gene changes that increase cancer risk.
Examples include:
• Lynch syndrome (linked to some womb/endometrial cancers)
• BRCA1 and BRCA2 (linked to ovarian cancer and breast cancer)
Genetic testing can:
• identify women at higher risk
• help plan prevention early
• support family members who may also be affected
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4) Weight and Cancer Risk
Body weight is a major risk factor, especially for womb (endometrial) cancer.
• Around 1 in 3 womb cancers are linked to obesity
• Around 7% of ovarian cancers are linked to obesity
Options that may reduce risk include:
• lifestyle support (diet, activity, weight management)
• anti-obesity medications (for some women)
• bariatric (weight-loss) surgery (for some women)
• Mirena coil (levonorgestrel IUS) – may reduce womb cancer risk in suitable patients
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5) Specialist Services for High-Risk Women
Women with inherited gene changes may be offered support through a Familial Gynaecological Cancer Service.
This can include:
• counselling and personalised risk advice
• psychological support
• menopause support (if surgery is needed)
• planning for risk-reducing surgery
• monitoring/surveillance for women who are not ready for surgery yet
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BRCA and Ovarian Cancer: Important Information
Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene changes have a much higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late, and may cause vague symptoms.
The most reliable prevention is:
✅ Risk-reducing surgery (removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries)
This surgery can:
• reduce ovarian cancer risk significantly
• cause early menopause if done before natural menopause
• affect fertility
Some women delay surgery until family is complete.
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Key Take-Home Messages
✔ Attend cervical screening when invited
✔ Accept the HPV vaccine if eligible
✔ Do not ignore v***al symptoms — get checked
✔ Ask about genetic testing if you have strong family history
✔ Seek support for weight and long-term health
✔ High-risk women can access specialist clinics for personalised care
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If you are worried
If you have symptoms or a strong family history, speak to your GP or gynaecology team.
Early assessment saves lives
Enquiries
Email:harleywomenshealth@gmail.com
Mobile: 07379 075580
Offering private Health Care in Londons Parkside Hospital, St Anthony’s Hospital & Harley St Clinic
